Former Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan is actively lobbying Rep. Mike Gallagher to endorse former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley for the 2024 presidential race. The outreach occurred during a flight from Canada to Washington, where Ryan sent a text message to Gallagher, emphasizing the alignment of Haley’s foreign policy views with the congressman’s. Wisconsin, the home state of both Ryan and Gallagher, is a crucial battleground in the upcoming election.
Ryan’s Lobbying Efforts and Message to Gallagher
Text Message on the Flight:
During a Tuesday flight, Paul Ryan reportedly sent a text message to Rep. Mike Gallagher, encouraging him to endorse Nikki Haley for the 2024 presidential race. Ryan highlighted the importance of Gallagher’s endorsement at this juncture, stating that Haley’s foreign policy and worldviews closely align with the congressman’s preferences.
Emphasis on Haley’s Strengths:
In the message, Ryan underlined Haley as the candidate who brings the most excitement, casting doubt on Gov. Ron DeSantis’s potential for broadening his support base. Ryan expressed skepticism about DeSantis’s growth potential and emphasized Haley as the preferable “growth stock.”
Gallagher’s Response and Endorsement Significance
Gallagher’s Position:
A spokesman for Rep. Gallagher clarified that the congressman has no current plans to endorse any candidate. Despite the lobbying efforts, Gallagher remains non-committal in terms of endorsing a presidential candidate at this time.
Key Role of Wisconsin:
Wisconsin, a battleground state, is anticipated to play a pivotal role in the 2024 election. In 2016, it contributed to Donald Trump’s victory, while in 2020, it swung back in favor of Democrats, securing a win for President Joe Biden. Recent state polls suggest a closely contested race between Trump and Biden, with Haley leading significantly against Biden in Wisconsin.
Haley’s Congressional Support:
Haley currently enjoys the endorsement of only one other congressman, Rep. Ralph Norman. Additional congressional support, especially from Gallagher, would further solidify her standing among Republican contenders.
Context of the 2024 Presidential Race
Trump’s Dominance:
Former President Donald Trump leads the Republican primary field by a substantial margin, enjoying widespread congressional support. His double-digit lead less than two months before the first nominating contest indicates his continued influence within the party.
DeSantis as a Competitor:
Gov. Ron DeSantis, considered a strong opponent to Haley in the race, has secured the backing of five representatives. The competition between DeSantis and Haley is notable, with both vying for key endorsements and support.
Haley’s Momentum:
Nikki Haley has experienced a surge in momentum over recent months, positioning herself as a formidable candidate. Her lead against Biden in Wisconsin and the potential endorsement from Gallagher underscore her growing influence in the 2024 presidential race.
Conclusion:
Paul Ryan’s efforts to sway Rep. Mike Gallagher towards endorsing Nikki Haley add a dynamic element to the evolving landscape of the 2024 Republican presidential race. As the political dynamics in Wisconsin play a crucial role, Haley’s quest for additional endorsements gains significance in the highly competitive field.
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